Stretch out: Qantas’ new Economy Plus cabin takes off

by James Wilkinson

Qantas customers can now book Qantas Economy Plus, with the new cabin product that offers up to 40 per cent more legroom, priority boarding and priority access to overhead baggage space taking off this week.

The first flights offering the new Qantas Economy Plus seating product will debut on 6 February on Boeing 737, Airbus A321XLR and A220 aircraft, operating across the national carrier’s domestic network and to popular short-haul international destinations including New Zealand, the Pacific Islands and Bali.

Qantas Economy Plus seat availability varies by aircraft type, with the Flying Kangaroo’s 737 fleet reconfigured to offer 48 seats in the forward and mid-cabin areas, the A220 offering 20 seats, and the A321XLR providing 36 seats in select zones.

From mid-2026, Qantas Economy Plus will expand to the airline’s Airbus A330 fleet, covering more international routes, including destinations across Asia.

Qantas Domestic CEO, Markus Svensson, said as seating remains a top priority for Frequent Flyers, high-tiered members will receive complimentary access to Qantas Economy Plus.

He said Platinum and Platinum One tiered members receive complimentary access to Qantas Economy Plus at the time of booking, while Gold members receive complimentary access from 24 hours prior to departure, subject to availability.

Customers travelling on the same booking as a member eligible for Qantas Economy Plus will also receive complimentary access, according to Svensson, who said the new cabin would deliver additional flexibility for customers and benefits for frequent flyers when travelling.

“Qantas Economy Plus brings together extra legroom, priority boarding and priority access to overhead bin space… all the elements we know make a real difference to our customers when flying,” he said.

“We’ve seen strong interest in Qantas Economy Plus from customers already, and we know it will be a great benefit for both our business and leisure travellers.”

In addition to Qantas Economy Plus, an expanded forward seating zone across multiple rows in the forward half of the Economy cabin will replace preferred seating across the broader Qantas fleet.

Forward zone seat selection will be complimentary for Platinum One, Platinum, Gold and Silver frequent flyers, subject to availability.

Qantas Economy Plus pricing will vary across front, main and exit row seating, and by route, in addition to fare price, according to the carrier.

Seat maps and the online booking experience have been updated across the Qantas website and app, making it easier for customers to view and select their preferred seating options.

Onboard, Qantas Economy Plus zones will be marked with branded headrests and overhead baggage bin placards, rolling out across the network in the coming weeks.

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